Related Video: Impacted 3rd Molar – Crowding and Damage
Related Video: Impacted 3rd Molar – Cyst
Related Video: Impacted 3rd Molar – Infected
Related Video: Third Molar Extraction
Wisdom teeth are the last permanent teeth to form and present themselves in the mouth. Wisdom teeth, the third molar, usually emerge at around 16 to 18 years of age. Wisdom teeth present themselves in different positions such as angular (sideways), horizontal (trapped) and vertical (may erupt fully or partially).
In most cases, the jaws are not large enough to accommodate these teeth and therefore remain under the gum. In this case the wisdom teeth are impacted. The term “impacted” describes a tooth that is not fully exposed in the mouth because it is covered by bone, or soft tissue.
Radiographs (X-ray’s) help the dentist to evaluate the wisdom teeth and determine what treatment is necessary. Surgery is much simpler for younger patients than older patients because the roots are not yet fully developed and the bone is not as dense. Younger patients also tend to heal faster.
Partially erupted teeth are considered to be impacted. Infection can develop in or around a wisdom tooth especially when an impacted tooth breaks through the gums, letting bacteria enter. Teeth develop in a sterile sac. Once the tooth has erupted, and this sac has been damaged, bacteria enter and disturb the previously sterile environment. Naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth can cause infection in the surrounding gums and bone. If left untreated adjacent teeth, surrounding bone and tooth roots may be harmed.
In a situation where the wisdom tooth does not erupt, such as a tooth that is positioned horizontally, a cyst can form. Cysts can form when the sac around the crown remains in the bone and fills with fluid. A cyst can destroy bone and surrounding structures.
It is advisable to remove wisdom teeth if:
1. They are causing trouble ex. Infected.
2. They are causing pain ex. When closing/opening the mouth.
3. Your jaw is too small to accommodate them.
4. If you are unable to maintain cleanliness.
5. Caries (decay) are occurring on the back side of the neighboring teeth because you are unable to keep the area clean.
6. The gums around the wisdom teeth are swollen.
7. You are experiencing bad breath.
8. You have an unpleasant taste in your mouth.